New Runner- Any Advice?

check out Coach 2 5k

Seconded! This is how I got back into running. If you have a smart phone, there are a few apps available. Otherwise, do a google search and I hear there are exercises you can download for an mp3 player. Good luck!!

Couch to 5k is amazing. I used to not be able to run at all... Now, I'm going a bit over 2 miles at a time. Defintely worth looking in to.

Hi! I hated running all my life, unless it was on a softball field, and that was really short distances. When I bought some Vibram FiveFingers toe shoes, I realized that running could be fun! I didn't feel like I was pulling anchors up with every step.

I just started a Couch to 5k program using Run Double's Android app. I love that you can use time or distance-based goals. I use time-based goals because I want to be able to run without worrying much about how far I'm getting. http://www.rundouble.com/ is the website. They have a few different training plans.

Actually, today I'm between Day 2 and 3 and I really want to go out and run (go figure!) but I know I will probably injure myself if I don't take a rest day this early in my training. So, I'd say if I have any advice, pay attention to your body (and not just your will!) so that you keep yourself ready to go when you are starting out. You may have super strong legs/tendons. If so, go for it!

I will also enthusiastically say couch to 5k!!

I don't really like running, but up tempo music helps and I always have a power song ready to go for when I hit a hill, or feel like I can't run anymore.

As JM says, "Unless you faint, puke or die, KEEP GOING!"

That's how much I don't like running haha.

I didn't do c25k. but i did just start running this year, in february. I started with intervals. I've done a 10k race, and now I'm training for a half marathon. Intervals help a great deal. Also, training slower really helps -- train in a lower heart rate/zone. Speed is not key, that will come. you have to build up your endurance. Before I started the half marathon training, the most i could run was like 10-12 minutes at a time, and it really tired me out.... i mostly just did intervals.... now running for 30 minutes straight is no problem... then I walk for a couple minutes, and start running again.... it's a great feeling.

I agree... C25K is awesome! I just completed my week 5 day 2 workout... I would recommend not only good running shoes, but Dr. Scholls active series insoles, a really good stretch after each work out, and R.I.C.E (rest, ice, compress, elevate) your knees after each run as well. Take your time - speed will come after you've achieved distance. GOOD LUCK!!

As JM says, "Unless you faint, puke or die, KEEP GOING!"

Haha!! This was my mantra for my first 5k... I gave myself a week to prepare for it. Yep, couch to 5k in a week :P I didn't faint, puke or die!

I got MAJOR shin splints. Get a good pair of shoes! I got fitted for shoes and it totally changed the way I run. I'm using an app called "Get Running" that's been really good so far. Every run has been challenging without killing me.

http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/30-couch-to-5k-running-program-c25k

Join the group, read up, and, more importantly, just get out there. You don't have to start out a great runner to learn to enjoy it. Before I injured my knee I was doing intervals - jog, walk, jog - which is basically what C25K has you doing, gradually building your time. Speed is not a factor, you can work on that when you've got your endurance, breathing, and form more developed.

I enjoy walking/jogging because of the time to myself. It really is just you against the world. Hopefully you can find the same joy in it. Some people cannot, and running just isn't for them - they may be better with another sort of exercise plan. However... A peaceful walk never hurt anyone.

I don't know how far you can run, but just take it nice and slow for a while. Run until you are out of time. Just run! ) There are some training plans out there (couch to 5k, couch to 10k, etc) that can give you a schedule. When I first started running, I would go 3 miles maybe 3 times a week. My half marathon schedule called for 3miles, at least three times a week and a longer, slower run. Honestly, I think you should just get out there and run. If it feels like it's too easy, increase the mileage and/or speed. Look up info on good form, do a warm-up walk before and cool down walk after, and stretch after. That's all I have for ya. Oh, and most of all, ENJOY!!! )

check out Coach 2 5k

Seconded! This is how I got back into running. If you have a smart phone, there are a few apps available. Otherwise, do a google search and I hear there are exercises you can download for an mp3 player. Good luck!!

Such a great app. I started using C2K which I finished a couple of months ago now I'm working on C210K. It's helped me sooooo much. I ran 50 minutes last night without the huffing and puffing. I love the app.

Thanks for the advice everyone Where can you find compression socks?

Any sporting goods store will have them... check out CEP Compression on Google or Amazon...